09/11/2024
What do you do away from horses that changes your perspective and mindset when you're with horses?
For me, practicing daily yoga (even for just a few minutes on some days) helps me to become more aware of myself and anything that I might be projecting onto the horse. This helps me view behaviours from the horse more objectively instead of taking it personally or assuming why it's happening. It also helps me slow down my movements and become more present in the moment, all things I find super helpful and practical for working with horses (especially more nervous ones). Additionally, I feel like having a deeper self awareness and hopefully less judgement changes the way I view all beings in general and makes me feel more connected to the world around me (horses included).
I feel like our judgements and thoughts inevitably distort the way we view things (ie. horses' behaviours) and this is all part of the human experience. Learning to become aware of this and let go of thoughts or judgements that aren't serving me helps me to create a more accurate depiction of the horse's behaviour and more effectively apply behavioural modification. Additionally, I feel like it cultivates a foundation of empathy, acceptance and compassion - all things I love to invite into my time with horses.
I'm still working on my form, strength, flexibility and evolving understanding of yoga and I'm sure I always will be, but it's certainly been pivotal for me.
